Teens have run riot in Brisbane’s CBD after a failed attempt to storm the Church of Scientology building as part of a viral social media trend.
Around 200 teenagers descended on George Street on Saturday afternoon, attempting what’s known as a “Scientology speedrun” - a growing TikTok trend that has the Church of Scientology alleging hate crimes.
When the group found the building’s doors locked, chaos erupted on the streets outside.
Shocking footage captured by bystanders shows a police patrol car being used as a makeshift BMX ramp in Brisbane, with other teens jumping on top of the vehicle and even climbing inside.
What is a Scientology Speedrun?
“Speedrunning is essentially a gaming term. In this particular instance, it’s really about breaking rules and trying to explore and be a bit cheeky,” Bond University video game expert Dr James Birt told 7NEWS.
The trend involves crowds storming into Scientology buildings and sharing videos online, with participants racing to see how quickly they can enter and exit the premises.
Social Media Warnings and Locked Doors
Posts warning of the Brisbane speedrun attempt were uploaded to social media a week ago, which explains why the building’s doors were locked when the group arrived.
“If it was, you know, Catholic Church, it’s probably not going to get the same level of likes and same level of engagement. It really is about that mysterious, almost cultish kind of idea behind that religion,” Birt said.
Police Response and No Arrests
Teens were spotted near the police cars, with one using the vehicle as a BMX ramp. Others even got into the police car.
The Church of Scientology in Brisbane has been approached for comment.
Police say no arrests have been made.
